The Falcons and Wales back row injured his foot playing for Newcastle against the Dragons last month, but the 32-year-old former Swansea star's agent says he could be on the comeback trail as early as next week.

"The first thing to do is to get the plastic air bubble off his injured foot," said Peter Underhill. "Then he may at least be in a position to start training and possibly get on the field in a club situation next week. Injuries are always unpredictable, but I think Colin is on the mend from this one."

Newcastle could do with a Charvis return, possibly against Harlequins on March 13, as they desperately need his experience and ability.

It would also give him a chance of making it to the Wales side for the final round of RBS Six Nations Championship games - and boost his prospects of making the Lions tour to New Zealand this summer.

Meanwhile, Falcons lock Stuart Grimes has been named in the Scotland squad for Saturday's Six Nations clash with Italy. Borders trio Chris Cusiter, who is being tracked by Gloucester, Simon Danielli and Bruce Douglas are also included along with former Falcons man Jon Dunbar (Leeds) and Ross Beattie (Northampton) and Newcastle-born Gavin Kerr (Leeds).

There's a recall for 25-year-old No 8 Simon Taylor, who made a scoring return for Edinburgh at the weekend - his first game in a year.

Taylor suffered knee ligament damage playing in the 2004 Six Nations games.

Ireland flanker Johnny O'Connor is a doubt for the game against England after hobbling out of Wasps' win over Northampton with an ankle injury.